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Key updates on Embodied Carbon ratings in 2025

News | 23 May 2025

In 2025, major advancements in the Embodied Carbon initiative are driving sustainability across the built environment. Learn more about how these updates are shaping the future of environmental responsibility.

We are excited to share the latest developments in our Embodied Carbon initiative, marking significant progress in environmental sustainability. From expanding our network of accredited Assessors to updating key rules and launching a refined rating calculator, these improvements will enhance the accuracy and efficiency of embodied carbon assessments across the built environment.

Growing Pool of Accredited Assessors
On April 28th and 29th, we successfully trained nearly 100 trainees, expanding our pool of accredited Assessors. These professionals will soon be fully equipped to conduct Embodied Carbon ratings, strengthening our ability to deliver reliable sustainability assessments. We extend our sincere thanks to all trainees who participated in the sessions—we can't wait to see the tool in action.

Embodied carbon training session held on April 28th and 29th 2025.

Updated Rules (v2.0) Released
We are pleased to announce the release of version 2.0 of our NABERS Embodied Carbon Rules, following extensive benchmarking and pilot testing. This update introduces several refinements, which are detailed in Appendix A of the document. We encourage industry professionals to review these updates and align their practices with the latest standards.


Embodied Carbon Rating Calculator Goes Live
To support early-stage planning and sustainability efforts, our rating calculator is now live on the "Estimate your rating" webpage. This tool allows projects to estimate upfront embodied carbon emissions and their potential NABERS rating results. Please note that while estimates can be used for planning, they cannot be publicly advertised unless officially certified by an accredited Assessor—certification can only occur once a building reaches practical completion.


Enhanced National Material Emission Factors Database
Alongside the calculator, we have updated our National Material Emission Factors database, now titled v2025.1. This version integrates approximately 1,000 new Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), while outdated entries have been removed. The database is seamlessly incorporated into our calculator, ensuring more accurate sustainability assessments.

James Elks, NABERS Head of Product Development, highlighted the critical role of the rating tool in decarbonisation efforts:

"The NABERS Embodied Carbon rating tool is a testament to what we can achieve when government, industry, and experts work together. With this tool, we can accurately measure embodied carbon emissions with confidence, supporting Australia’s journey to net zero."

James Elks
NABERS Head of Product Development

We remain committed to driving meaningful change in embodied carbon reduction and supporting industry professionals in their sustainability journey. As new tools and resources become available, we will continue fostering innovation for a greener built environment.


For more details on these updates, including estimating your rating or downloading version 2.0 of the Embodied Carbon Rules, visit our NABERS Embodied Carbon rating page.